unbend
VerbWordNet 3.0
Verb (6)
- straighten up or out; make straightSynonyms: straighten
- unfasten, as a sail, from a spar or a stay
- free from flexure“unbend a bow”
- make less taut“relax the tension on the rope”Synonyms: relax
- become less tense, rest, or take one's ease“He relaxed in the hot tub”“Let's all relax after a hard day's work”Synonyms: relaxloosen upunwinddecompressslow down
- release from mental strain, tension, or formality“unbend the mind from absorbing too much information”
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
Unbend \Un*bend"\ ([u^]n*b[e^]nd"), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Unbent ([u^]n*b[e^]nt"); p. pr. & vb. n. Unbending.] [1st pref. un- + bend.]
1.To free from flexure; to make, or allow to become, straight; to loosen; as, to unbend a bow. [1913 Webster]
2.A remit from a strain or from exertion; to set at ease for a time; to relax; as, to unbend the mind from study or care. [1913 Webster]
You do unbend your noble strength.— Shak.[1913 Webster]
3.(Naut.) (a) To unfasten, as sails, from the spars or stays to which they are attached for use. (b) To cast loose or untie, as a rope. [1913 Webster]
Unbend \Un*bend"\, v. i.
1.To cease to be bent; to become straight or relaxed. [1913 Webster]
2.To relax in exertion, attention, severity, or the like; hence, to indulge in mirth or amusement. [1913 Webster]